293 Springvale Road, Glen Waverley, 3150

0413 184 250 stuart.james@monash.vic.gov.au

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Extremely proud to welcome the Cook Island Prime Minister, Henry Puna, to Australia this morning as part of the country’s first ever state visit The City of Monash has a proud history of supporting our Cook Island community through our grants program. Former Monash Councillor Ngatuaine Hosking was also the first Cook Islander to be elected to any level of Government in Australia Unfortunately I had to rush off to another event and didn’t get to enjoy this massive feast, but wow!
Stunning weather (finally) and a great day to get things done around the house. Pop down to Bunnings in Notting Hill and grab a snag while you’re here!
What an amazing fete put on by Hughesdale Primary School. Plenty of rides, food and fabulous stage performances. Our kids were absolutely exhausted, as were we! Hughesdale Primary School Carnival
What a fabulous way to end an extremely busy first week; celebrating the 105th birthday of Pearl, who we believe is our oldest resident. She’s extremely excited as her youngest brother is visiting on Sunday, aged 82. Wow!
Congratulations to Cr Georgina Oxley on her election as Mayor of the City of Kingston tonight. Looking forward to working together, particularly around our boundary in Clayton
First task for the day; buy a new KeepCup to use at Council 😍
On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, silence descended over the battle fields Lest we forget
This afternoon Council hosted a meet your street event in Glen Waverley. The program encourages neighbours to come out and meet each other in a local park. In a world where we’re all too busy, this is a great way for communities to reconnect. Interested in having one in your area? More information available here : https://www.monash.vic.gov.au/About-Us/Council/Our-Organisation/Advocacy/Meet-Your-Street-campaign
Moving Remembrance Day service this morning performed by the Oakleigh-Carnegie RSL. Another service will be held tomorrow at the Cenotaph at 10:45am Lest we forget!
An eye opening day in the City of Monash as four religious centres opened their doors and gave the public an insight in to their religious faiths and observances We started off with Sankat Mochan Temple Huntingdale followed by the Bangladesh Islamic Centre, St Michaels Coptic Church and the All Nations Presbyterian Church (South Sudanese) A fantastic initiative organised by the Monash Interfaith Gathering!
It’s Melbourne Cup week. That means it’s also the week of the Hughesdale Art Show. To my wife’s despair I’ve bought another painting, but I just couldn’t help myself. Pop down and check out the works of local artists. It’s open this Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm at the Hughesdale Community Centre - corner Poath & Kangaroo Roads
Playground upgrade commitment number 3 has been completed in Melissa Street in Mount Waverley. I still remember people sitting on the fence having a picnic while I was letterboxing as there were no seats. Such a fabulous improvement on what was here previously. Once the trees grow it will be even better! Playground upgrades to Evelyn Street Clayton and Wilma Avenue Mulgrave to come!
‪Rain couldn’t stop the Oakleigh representatives from all three levels of Government enjoying the annual Glendi Festival at Warrawee Park. It’s on until 8pm tonight and the sun has just appeared. Pop on down‬ With Steve Dimopoulos MP & Clare O'Neil MP
I know it’s a big call, but I think the spicy beef Pho at Pho288 Huntingdale might well be the best I’ve ever had. Sadly they don’t do deliveries but it’s well worth the visit to sample this exquisite home cooking Pop down and try for yourself let me know what you think! #Huntingdale #SupportLocal
Most of you will remember Cafe Du Coin from my earlier posts. Well, over Winter the owners have changed and Cafe Spacho has been born. Coffee is absolutely delicious and there’s an entirely new menu to choose from. Now that the weather is warming up, make your way down and welcome Silvana and her family, who are also new to #Oakleigh. They’re on the corner of Dandenong and Atherton Roads. #SupportLocal
Traffic around Oakleigh Grammar is chaos during school times, often bringing Willesden, Bletchley and Clapham Roads to a standstill. Cars are often double parked causing blockages to local residents Well, we’re taking measures to ease the pain with new short term parking and kiss & go zones. Construction should be complete shortly
Next on the Sunday brunch list that followers compiled was Black Salt Cafe in Bentleigh East. Yes, ok, it’s marginally outside my ward, but I’m a sucker for beautiful food and great coffee on a Sunday morning; they didn’t disappoint. Pop in and savour the atmosphere!
The annual Monash Community Awards. We have so many amazing volunteers that give up so much of their time to help others and to better our city. It’s always hard to pick an overall winner as everyone was worthy, but this year it was hard to go past Deborah Upstill; more than 20 years volunteering all across our city Well done to all our worthy recipients https://www.monash.vic.gov.au/About-Us/Awards-Grants/Sir-John-Monash-Awards/Award-winners-2019
Here’s another playground I committed to upgrading - Melissa Street, Mt Waverley. It’s not far off completion and should be open just in time for Summer barbecues. This is a lovely part of the world with Scotchman’s Creek, the Wetlands, Ink Mind Core and Stanley just a short stroll away
Rotary. You probably know their blue and yellow banner but you probably don’t know all the amazing work they do behind the scenes. Recently the Oakleigh, Huntingdale and Clayton branches banded together for the annual garden charity auction, raising money for cancer Anne is one the amazing hard working committee members that helped put the event together. Another terrific local community group bettering lives!
Fantastic to meet another 350 odd new citizens at last nights ceremony - our last one for the year. I know I say this every time, but it’s such an incredible honour to share these experiences. It really makes you realise how lucky we are to live in the best country in the world With Cr Shane McCluskey Matt Fregon MP and Senator Raff Ciccone
What a cracking day to hold the annual Coptic Community festival in Drummond Street Oakleigh. I’m hooked on the beautiful, yet very sweet, Egyptian Doughnuts (Zalabya). Yuuuuum
‪Missed the City of Monash bulletin (and my article) in your letterbox this month? ‬ ‪You can view it online here: https://www.monash.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/about-us/news/bulletin/monash-bulletin-september-2019.pdf‬
Another 300 odd citizenships confirmed tonight. I’m not sure we’ve ever had a Fijian family fully dressed in traditional outfits before; how good do they look? Such an amazing night, as always!
Looking for something to do today? Pop down to the Brentwood Community Youth Club opposite Brandon Park on Ferntree Gully Road and check out the Gem show. An amazing array of precious stones on display and even the chance to do a bit of prospecting
Packed house for the Oakleigh Dragons Junior Football Club Presentation Day. Proud of these amazing new club rooms. Well done to Darcy for taking out the inaugural Oakleigh Gift running race!
Back at an old favourite this morning, Nature Boy Cafe in Murrumbeena. I’m a bit of a sucker for the chicken hoagie - absolutely delicious. And the girls just love the play area! #SundayBrunch #FamilyTime #SupportLocal
This morning our roving listening posts have landed at the amazing Cabina Playgroup in Chadstone (just down the road from the Oakleigh Pool). This is without a doubt the achievement I’m most proud of in my time on Council; a drop in centre for parents and children to socialise and meet others Pop down with your kids and join in the fun. We’re here until 12pm
Danny Frawley’s death was an absolute tragedy that touched so many. There are hundreds of thousands of people dealing with the same mental demons in silence. More than 8 people each day are lost to suicide. It’s 8 too many I’m pleased that as a Council and as a society we are working hard to address mental health issues and remove the stigma. There are so many who need our help. While today is ‘R U OK’ day, that is something we should be asking our friends and loved ones every day of every week, not just once a year If you or anyone you know needs help, there is plenty available. Reach out - because no-one should ever be alone!
Pleasure to join with Melbourne Kannada Sangha MKS to celebrate Indian Independence Day. Fantastic afternoon out with lots of singing and dancing. The children were just adorable and highlighted what an fantastic community organisation Kannada Sangha are I must admit that I loved the rendition of “I love my India”. Brilliant!
It may be my OCD, but I can’t help by admire this work of art every time I walk down Atherton Road. It may only be matching some tiles on a pit lid, but I think it speaks volumes for the professionalism of our City of Monash staff.
Demolition is complete on the biggest infrastructure project the City of Monash has ever undertaken. The $25 million dollar redevelopment of the Oakleigh Recreation Centre will transform the area in to one of the best sporting precincts in the State The new centre will feature new Basketball Courts and a state of the art gymnastics facility. We’ve already built 8 new tennis courts at Caloola Reserve and planning is underway for a multi-million dollar pavilion to accompany it The centre is due to open in October, 2020. You can watch a video impression of what we’re building here: https://www.oakleighrecreationcentre.com.au/News/ORC-Redevelopment-Update
The Huntingdale shopping centre is extremely busy with shoppers and university students. For almost three years I’ve been lobbying VicRoads to reduce the speed limit from a ridiculous 60km to a much safer 40km With some assistance from Steve Dimopoulos MP, we finally managed to get VicRoads to agree to a Victorian first; variable static sign speed limits Remember, slowing down won’t kill you!
‪This stuff makes me proud 🤗‬ ‪“Stefanie from the City of Monash talked to the children about recycling. They practiced identifying which materials go into which bin, learnt a recycling song & were told how recycled items turn into the new things”‬ That was last week. Today, another visit, this time talking about worms and composting 👍 ‪#Recycling #Education‬ #ThisIsMonash
Dual personalities! Dad is my inspiration for everything I do and my three girls are the reason I do what I do. Happy Father’s Day to all the Dad’s out there!
Next on the Sunday brunch list was Grange Junction for Father’s Day. Absolutely delicious food and the decor was phenomenal with lots of historical items, such as this old telephone. There’s even outside tables where dogs are welcome (on a leash of course) A sensational suggestion. We’ll be back!
Unfortunately it just wasn’t our day, but I’m super proud of Oakleigh District Women's today. Endeavour Hills were undefeated all year and for large parts of the game we had their measure but just couldn’t capitalise on the scoreboard. Even though we lost, it was a cracking contest played in perfect Spring weather, even if it was a day early. We’ll be back bigger and better next year! Oakleigh District Football Netball Club
‪Oakleigh District Women's Football Club are playing in the Grand Final at Meade Reserve in Clayton. Pop on down and #SupportLocal footy‬ Oakleigh District Football Netball Club
Another 347 people became Australian Citizens last night. It’s always such a special night for these people and their joy is contagious. Congratulations to you all!
Last week I posted asking for suggestions for a Sunday morning brunch cafe. We’ve decided to try them all. First cab off the rank was Aliza's place Cafe in Chadstone. A bit odd having to go to the counter to order, but the food was like a work of art, especially the Nutella pancakes which my wife scoffed down in no time. Plenty of space for the kids too! #SupportLocal #ThisIsMonash
Another block moonscaped with Council powerless to act. This is why Council voted to introduce tree controls at it’s June meeting. We’re still waiting on the Minister to approve interim controls while we go through a planning scheme amendment process. Read more here: https://www.monash.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/about-us/council/council-meetings/2019-25-june/1.2-report-council-meeting-25-june-2019.pdf
Checking out the 10th of 100 new buses being added to the Transdev Australasia bus fleet with Sonja Terpstra MP * Less CO2 emissions than most cars * Entire fleet being built right here in VIC * More handles and more stop buttons * Anti-graffiti measures * USB charging points * Wifi capable * 11 CCTV cameras Ping Melissa Horne MP 👍😃
‪The scene is set for an evening with Craig Reucassel (War on Waste & The Chaser) talking about the e-waste explosion‬ ‪Did you know that you can properly dispose of your e-waste free of charge at the City of Monash waste transfer facility on Ferntree Gully Road?‬
Zoe and I had a great afternoon today with the Tamil Senior Citizens celebrating multiculturalism. We had singers and dancers from Indian, Sri Lankan, Greek and Polish backgrounds along with the Mandarin Dancing group. They were joined by Bala (left) who turned 90 years old today!
Have you been down to check out the new playground at Galbally Reserve in Hughesdale yet? Its the site of only our second expression swing set Following on from the success from our installation in Samar’s Street Notting Hill, we’re deploying this at new playgrounds wherever practical. No longer do the kids have all the fun!!
Good news everyone; while letterboxing between rain bursts today, April and I found blossom blooming in Dalgan Street, Oakleigh South. That means warm weather is just around the corner - and it can’t come quick enough ☃️❄️☔️🌦🌤☀️
Here is the capacity for each mode of transport per hour. And our solution to tackle congestion is to spend tens of billions of dollars on new roads? 🤦‍♂️ #MovePeopleNotCars
We often get caught up in the digital world and forget the simple joys of reading a book. I’m continuously amazed at how much children can teach us about the simple things in life that we’ve either forgotten about or been too busy to do Pop down to your local Monash Public Library and rediscover the love affair you used to have with disappearing into another world for a moment
‪Still one of the favourite parts of my job; welcoming our newest Australian Citizens‬!
When I was running for Council, I promised to push for a new park for #Hughesdale. Well, it’s here! The newly refurbished Galbally Reserve playground opened two weeks ago and it is absolutely fantastic. If you haven’t made the trip, put it on your list. There’s plenty more than what you can see in the picture such as BBQ facilities and a half-court Basketball ring. As a result of one of my budget bids, we’re also just about to start work on a new Streetscape plan for Poath Road in conjunction with Glen Eira. Hughesdale is the forgotten sister no longer. Let me know what you think!!
‪At last night’s meeting, Commuters Count was joined by relatively new MP Rod Barton MP. Absolutely thrilled to discover that we share a lot of similar priorities‬. Looking forward to working together over the next few years to further Transport in the East Worth noting, too, that the female Councillors on our Board outnumber the male Councillors #Transport #Diversity
Ten Pin Bowling at ZONE BOWLING for the first time and a visit to Daniel's Donuts. No swimming due to school holidays so Saturday mornings with Dad is an adventure 😍 Haven’t pulled the bowling balls out of the garage for a decade so pretty happy with a 138 and 164 off the bat. I might have the bug again 😎
It’s the second of our FREE Winter Concerts today. We’re running through until 4pm at the Oakleigh-Carnegie RSL. Come on down and join us.
Devastating news today from my parents farm; one of our two pet sheep can’t bare weight on his legs. Despite a vet visit and some painkillers, he’s unlikely to make it through the night. At almost 18 years of age, he’s had a good innings, but still feels like losing a family member ☹️😢
Unusually large turnout tonight to discuss and sift through the latest proposal for #1 Beryl Avenue, Oakleigh South. These sessions are really helpful for ascertaining where the community sits If you missed tonight’s session, don’t fret. We’re holding a second one on Tuesday 16 July at the Monash Seminar & Training Centre (1A Atherton Road, Oakleigh) between 9.30am and 11am Unfortunately due to work commitments I won’t be able to attend that one, but if you wish to reach out please send me an email or give me a call
Not content with yesterday’s front page bashing of Councils, Herald Sun editor Damon Johnston today says that “many Councils have indulged in the pursuit of agendas well outside local government purview” Many? I think that of the 79 Councils in Victoria, he’d struggle to reach double figures. Yes, there are some inner city Councils that push the boundaries, but that’s not the norm Sections 3C & 3D of the Local Government Act must frustrate him greatly. What does he suggest Council does? Break the law? http://www6.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/legis/vic/consol_act/lga1989182/s3d.html
This afternoon I ventured outside of my comfort zone and visited a local footy club in a different area of the City of Monash; Mazenod Panthers All Ability Football Club with Cr Shane McCluskey. I was blown away by the work done by the club to support people of all abilities. We also heard from a paraplegic who plays in the St Kilda Football Club AFL Wheelchair team. I had no idea there was even such a thing. They play weekly on Sunday’s between 11am and 1pm down at the Booroondara Sports Complex in Burwood - I’ll be heading down to check it out!
Terrific night out joining Mayor Cr Shane McCluskey listening to the wrap up of a pilot program run by the City of Monash in partnership with Sport & Rec Vic, Link Health and Community and Monash University; ‘Community Leaders United By Sport’ (CLUBS) We heard from a panel of four leaders who took part who talked about how the program has helped them understand the importance of good culture and inclusiveness in promoting diversity, gender equity and fairness Three out of five women are not exercising enough while 50% feel that Sports clubs are intimidating. It was clear from last night that changing the culture at clubs is the key I’m incredibly proud of the work our Active Monash team have done in this area and look forward to discussions on how we can further this exciting program
Sensational night at the Melbourne Cricket Club for the annual Cerebral Palsy Education Centre Gala. CPEC do an amazing job supporting children cut down with this debilitating disease. All of the kids that I’ve met who go through their centre are an absolute inspiration. 1 in 700 babies (one every 15 hours) are diagnosed with Celebral Palsy. It doesn’t discriminate and can happen to anyone. Even with the NDIS, we simply don’t provide enough Government support to these families, so it’s always great to come together at these fundraisers and donate. I was extremely proud that the three City of Monash Councillors in attendance, myself, Cr Shane McCluskey and Cr Paul Klisaris all chipped in to donate a second skin to help a child control their body. You won’t find a more worthy cause to donate to. If you can spare a few dollars, visit https://cpec.org.au/donate-support/donate/
Great atmosphere down at the Oakleigh District Football Netball Club for the past players and sponsors day. Those grey clouds look ominous, but the sun’s shining bright
Amazed to run in to the 2019 Stawell Gift winner, Dhruv Chico, at the 20 year reunion for the Oakleigh Krushers 1999 Premiership team!
Had a great morning at the Cook Islands Awards and 10th year Anniversary down in Clayton with former City of Monash Councillor Nga Hosking Celebrating culture and passing on traditions to younger generations is an important part of multiculturalism in our great city The kids also enjoyed dancing to the traditional music 😝
It’s a sad day today. My good friends Andrew and Amran from Cafe Du Coin have decided to move on to bigger and better things. The legacy they leave is an old run down building turned in to a thriving cafe on the corner of Atherton and Dandenong Roads I’m going to miss them 😥 Cafe Spacho will be coming soon....
We’re at Clayton Station until 12:30pm today gathering feedback from local residents. If you’re in the area, pop down and say hello!
We are calling on the State Government to intervene in the homelessness crisis which is gripping our municipality and our State. In the meantime, here is how you can help....
Meet Jill and Janice. They’ve been volunteering their time to serve the City of Monash Community for 41 years. To put that in perspective, that’s longer than I’ve been alive. Wow!! These are the unsung heroes of our Community. It was a pleasure to spend an afternoon honouring their service.
Talking Transport with Raf Epstein in my capacity as Commuters Count Chair Missed it? Listen in here: http://chirb.it/5Asnxy
Happy Mother’s Day to this extraordinary woman; the glue that holds our family together. I couldn’t do what I do without her unwavering and unconditional support. Her love for our beautiful children knows no bounds. We are indeed very lucky people 😍
Nothing quite like an open place fireplace on a cold Autumn’s day
Introducing our incredibly passionate Monash Young Persons Reference Group including our newest inductees. I’m so incredibly proud of what this group has achieved in securing commitments for a headspace in the City of Monash. Excited to see where they take us next. What were you doing at age 18?
Today is the start of Road Safety Week. Vehicles are deadly weapons; one split second decision can destroy so many lives, including your own. Slowing down won’t kill you. Safer Australian Roads and Highways (The Sarah Group.Org) City of Monash
Another great Oakleigh South Primary School fete yesterday. The rain was a tad annoying, but we still managed to negotiate our way on to most of the rides, listen to some amazing piano solos and of course fill ourselves up with honey crackles and ice cream. I was pretty happy to nab sponsorship of the fairy floss stand again - yuuuuuum 😎😍
Despite the on again off again rain, we had an awesome time this morning tree planting along Scotchman’s Creek as part of the City of Monash Skink Link project. Zoe didn’t really get it, but she was happy enough to put the left over containers together 😂🤣
Everyone knows I love my food. I was so excited to come across the brand new Corner Table in Pinewood on my way to meetings at Council this morning. Amazing coffee to go with a delicious bacon and egg roll. It’s got a brilliant ambience, come down and check it out.
My baby girl isn’t such a baby girl anymore; 4 years old. ‪Moments like these put life in to perspective and give a real purpose to everything I do. Time moves too quickly for my liking Special thanks to True Fairies for making it such a special day for our beautiful little princess
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them #LestWeForget #Oakleigh Oakleigh-Carnegie RSL
Easter! A perfect time for a family bike ride to the park. We’re so lucky to have the beauty and serenity of Scotchman’s Creek Trail in our backyard. I hope you all had an enjoyable break with your families.
Today is one of my least favourite days of the year; it’s the last day for Hot Cross Buns. And so begins the count down - 248 days until they’re back 😢
The fish tank is complete! 🐠 It’s been sitting in the garage for a few years and the kids begged me to bring it to life. Amazing how much joy children get from the simplest things. Squeals of delight watching fish swim around 🥰🐟
Citizenship Ceremony #3 for 2019; still one of my favourite events on the calendar. It’s such a privilege to share in one of the most amazing experiences in these people’s lives. It’s always a great reminder to me of how privileged I am to have been born in the greatest country on earth 🇦🇺
Great afternoon at the Players Theatre Company’s performance of Madagascar. I love nothing more than watching teenagers putting together a production, the passion is contagious. I minored in Theatre at Uni, and I must say I miss it. Their final production is on tomorrow at South Oakleigh Secondary College. Well worth the visit if you’re looking for something to do.
Here’s another crucial community service that the City of Monash provide - Immunisation. April’s just had her last one Just as well Victoria Councils worry about more than just Roads, Rates and Rubbish!
There’s a very simple reason the loud minority won’t win; there are more people that try to unite us than try to divide us. Honoured to be part of the inaugural Monash Interfaith Gathering celebrating diversity and inclusion. We are stronger together.
Awesome morning down at the wetlands learning about birds, frogs and water bugs. Thanks to the City of Monash Sustainability team and Melbourne Water!
Sometimes when you’re wandering the streets, you come across a little gem you’d never noticed before. This happened to me the other night with Mykonos Restaurant Bar in Portman Street Oakleigh A beautiful little restaurant that opens in to a beautiful, warm and inviting area out the back. I was getting take away on this occasion (the chicken meat was to die for!!) but I’ll be back to enjoy the dine-in ambience! #SupportLocal
As politicians we cop a lot of criticism and many decisions are hard to make, but these are the moments that make it all worthwhile. We often take our citizenships for granted, but for these people it was one of their proudest moments. I loved sharing it with them.
Great day at Monash University celebrating Holi. Well done to Sankat Mochan Samiti for another amazing event, it’s always one of my favourite in the calendar. If you haven’t been before, look out for it next March. Make sure you wear a white T-Shirt and be prepared to dance the day away!
χαρούμενη μέρα ανεξαρτησίας Happy Greek Independence Day (March 25)
‪Today was one of the proudest moments for me at the City of Monash. I became the first Councillor ever to take out the weekly Engineering Carpet Bowls competition. I am now seriously considering retirement from bowls.
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